Ronaldo the reject

Many are shocked by the lack of respect displayed by Real Madrid towards the Brazilian superstar as they show him the door

If David Beckham believes he is being treated with a lack of respect by Real Madrid, then he must spare a thought for his friend and teammate Ronaldo.

Everything indicates that the Brazilian will be leaving Real for Milan, who are keen to sign him before the end of the January transfer window. Tricky negotiations are under way between the two clubs, the player and the Italians having already agreed personal terms. But it is the manner of Ronaldo’s going, the bad grace shown him by a once grand old institution, that is causing red-faced stupefaction among Real fans.

It is true that over the past two seasons Ronaldo has grown a tad tubby, that fans at the Bernabeu came to know him, only half affectionately, as el gordo — fatty. He came to resemble, at his beefiest, a heavyweight boxer past his prime.